Non-transitory computer-readable storage medium with executable information processing program stored thereon, information processing apparatus, information processing system, and information processing method

ABSTRACT

An exemplary embodiment provides a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium with an executable information processing program stored thereon. The executable information processing program causes a computer of an information processing apparatus having a storage that stores a plurality of contents to perform designating an amount of data, displaying on a display a plurality of pieces of content information representing contents as being aligned in accordance with a priority for each content, selecting at least one of the plurality of pieces of content information in response to an operation by a user, and performing a calculation based on the designated amount of data and an amount of data of a content corresponding to the selected content information. The step of displaying a plurality of pieces of content information includes showing a result of the calculation on the display.

This nonprovisional application is based on Japanese Patent ApplicationNo. 2016-201659 filed with the Japan Patent Office on Oct. 13, 2016, theentire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD

The present technology relates to a non-transitory computer-readablestorage medium with an executable information processing program storedthereon, an information processing apparatus, an information processingsystem, and an information processing method.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY

A form of use of any application program by downloading the same hasbecome general. An electronic device which stores a plurality ofapplication programs in a memory has been known.

In the electronic device as described above, for example, when a freespace cannot be secured in downloading a new application program, anotification to the effect that a free space is insufficient is simplygiven, and it may be difficult for a user to readily recognize which ofalready stored application programs should be erased.

An exemplary embodiment provides a configuration which allowsrecognition of an amount of data of an already stored content and easydetermination as to a content to be erased for securing a desired freespace.

An exemplary embodiment provides a non-transitory computer-readablestorage medium with an executable information processing program storedthereon. The information processing program, when executed by a computerof an information processing apparatus having a storage that stores aplurality of contents, causes the computer to perform designating anamount of data, displaying on a display a plurality of pieces of contentinformation representing contents as being aligned in accordance with apriority for each content, selecting at least one of the plurality ofpieces of content information in response to an operation by a user, andperforming a calculation based on the designated amount of data and anamount of data of a content corresponding to the selected contentinformation. The step of displaying a plurality of pieces of contentinformation includes displaying a result of the calculation on thedisplay.

The content may include an application program.

The application program may include a basic program, an update program,and additional data.

A content earlier in last launch of a corresponding application programmay be higher in priority for each content.

A content smaller in number of times of launch of a correspondingapplication program may be higher in priority for each content.

The storage may include a first storage and a second storage.

The first storage may be a storage contained in the informationprocessing apparatus.

The second storage may be a storage attachable to and removable from theinformation processing apparatus.

The step of displaying a plurality of pieces of content information mayinclude displaying an amount of data stored in the first storage and anamount of data stored in the second storage for each content.

The step of displaying a plurality of pieces of content information mayinclude activating an operation to erase a content by the user when afree space corresponding to the designated amount of data can be securedby erasing a content corresponding to the selected content informationfrom any of the first storage and the second storage.

The content information may include at least one of a name of acorresponding application program, an amount of data of thecorresponding application program, and a state of use of thecorresponding application program.

The step of displaying a plurality of pieces of content information mayinclude displaying the content information when a free space isinsufficient for storing a new content in the storage in storing the newcontent in the storage.

The executable information processing program may cause the computer tofurther perform erasing a content corresponding to the selected contentinformation from the storage.

The step of displaying a plurality of pieces of content information mayinclude accepting setting of automatic erasure of a content after acontent is erased in the step of erasing a content.

An information processing apparatus according to one embodiment includesa storage that stores a plurality of contents, a designation module thatdesignates an amount of data, a representation control module that has adisplay show a plurality of pieces of content information representingcontents as being aligned in accordance with a priority for eachcontent, a selection module that selects at least one of the pluralityof pieces of content information in response to an operation by a user,and a calculation module that performs a calculation based on an amountof data designated by the designation module and an amount of data of acontent corresponding to the content information selected by theselection module. The representation control module has the display showa result of the calculation.

An information processing system according to one embodiment includes astorage that stores a plurality of contents and a processing device. Theprocessing device includes a designation module that designates anamount of data, a representation control module that has a display showa plurality of pieces of content information representing contents asbeing aligned in accordance with a priority for each content, aselection module that selects at least one of the plurality of pieces ofcontent information in response to an operation by a user, and acalculation module that performs a calculation based on an amount ofdata designated by the designation module and an amount of data of acontent corresponding to the content information selected by theselection module. The representation control module has the display showa result of the calculation.

An information processing method according to one embodiment isperformed in an information processing apparatus having a storage thatstores a plurality of contents. The information processing methodincludes designating an amount of data, displaying on a display aplurality of pieces of content information representing contents asbeing aligned in accordance with a priority for each content, selectingat least one of the plurality of pieces of content information inresponse to an operation by a user, performing a calculation based onthe designated amount of data and an amount of data of a contentcorresponding to the selected content information, and displaying aresult of the calculation on the display.

The foregoing and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of theexemplary embodiments will become more apparent from the followingdetailed description of the exemplary embodiments when taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary illustrative non-limiting drawing illustratingan overall configuration of an information processing system accordingto the present embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary illustrative non-limiting drawing illustratingone example of a configuration of an information processing apparatusaccording to the present embodiment.

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary illustrative non-limiting drawing illustratingone example of a configuration of a server according to the presentembodiment.

FIG. 4 shows an exemplary illustrative non-limiting drawing illustratinga flowchart showing an overall processing procedure in the informationprocessing system according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 5 shows an exemplary illustrative non-limiting drawing illustratingone example of a data structure stored in a storage of the informationprocessing apparatus according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 6A to 6C show exemplary illustrative non-limiting drawings eachillustrating an example of a screen image showing a state that anapplication program is installed in the information processing apparatusaccording to the present embodiment.

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary illustrative non-limiting drawing illustratingone example of a screen image shown in step S112 in FIG. 4.

FIG. 8 shows an exemplary illustrative non-limiting drawing illustratingone example of a data structure of management information used in theinformation processing apparatus according to the present embodiment.

FIGS. 9 and 10 show exemplary illustrative non-limiting drawingsillustrating examples of screen images shown in steps S122 and S124 inFIG. 4.

FIG. 11 shows an exemplary illustrative non-limiting drawingillustrating one example of a screen image for activating an automaticerasure function provided in the information processing apparatusaccording to the present embodiment.

FIG. 12 shows an exemplary illustrative non-limiting drawingillustrating one example of a screen image providing an exclusionsetting function of the information processing apparatus according tothe present embodiment.

FIG. 13 shows an exemplary illustrative non-limiting drawingillustrating one example of a software structure implemented in theinformation processing apparatus according to the present embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF NON-LIMITING EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

The present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to thedrawings. The same or corresponding elements in the drawings have thesame reference characters allotted and description thereof will not berepeated.

[A. Overall Configuration]

An overall configuration of an information processing system accordingto the present embodiment will initially be described with reference toFIG. 1. An information processing system 1 includes one informationprocessing apparatus 100 or a plurality of information processingapparatuses 100 and a server 200. Information processing apparatus 100can access server 200 through a network 2.

Network 2 may be any private network in addition to a public networksuch as the Internet. A communication line configuring network 2 may bea wired line or a wireless line. In the configuration shown in FIG. 1,an access point 4 is connected to wired network 2, and informationprocessing apparatus 100 is wirelessly connected to access point 4 toaccess server 200 through access point 4.

Though FIG. 1 schematically depicts one server 200, one computer or anassembly of a plurality of computers may function as one server 200.

Server 200 can distribute contents to information processing apparatus100. Specifically, server 200 includes a content group 250 consisting ofa plurality of contents and management information 260.

Contents included in content group 250 include an application programproviding game processing or various types of information processing,image data, moving image data, music data, and book data. In thedescription below, an example where a content is an application programwill mainly be described.

Management information 260 includes information on which content can bedistributed for each user or each information processing apparatus 100.For example, when all contents or a specific content included in contentgroup 250 can be downloaded in accordance with a contract between a userand a content distributor, that information is reflected on managementinformation 260.

When server 200 receives a request for distribution of a content fromany information processing apparatus 100, it performs authenticationprocessing. When the authentication processing is successful, server 200starts downloading of the requested content. Information processingapparatus 100 saves the content downloaded from server 200 in itself.

[B. Apparatus Configuration]

A configuration of information processing apparatus 100 and server 200configuring information processing system 1 according to the presentembodiment will now be described.

(b1: Information Processing Apparatus 100)

Any computer having a storage function for storing a content from server200 can be employed as information processing apparatus 100. Though FIG.1 exemplifies a portable information processing apparatus by way ofexample, a stationary apparatus may be applicable without being limitedas such. Other examples of implementations of a portable informationprocessing apparatus include a portable telephone, a smartphone, atablet, and a portable game device. Examples of the stationary apparatusinclude a personal computer and a home game machine.

One example of a configuration of information processing apparatus 100according to the present embodiment will be described with reference toFIG. 2. Information processing apparatus 100 includes a processor 102, amain memory 104, an internal storage 106, a memory card interface 112, auniversal serial bus (USB) interface 116, a display 118, an operationunit 120, an audio output unit 122, a radio communication unit 124, anacceleration sensor 126, and a gyro sensor 128. These components areconnected to be able to communicate data with one another through a bus130.

Processor 102 is a processing entity for performing processing providedby information processing apparatus 100. Processor 102 executes a systemprogram 108 stored in internal storage 106. System program 108corresponds to an information processing program for implementingvarious functions according to the present embodiment. Processor 102executes an application program included in application data 110(details of which will be described later).

Main memory 104 is any storage device which can be accessed by processor102, and mounted, for example, as a volatile storage device such as adynamic random access memory (DRAM).

Internal storage 106 is a storage contained in information processingapparatus 100 and mounted, for example, as a non-volatile storage devicesuch as a flash memory or a hard disk. Internal storage 106 stores onepiece or a plurality of pieces of application data 110 as one example ofa content downloaded from server 200 in addition to system program 108.Internal storage 106 further stores management information 111 includinginformation on execution of one piece or a plurality of pieces ofapplication data 110.

A memory card 114 which is a removable non-volatile storage device suchas an SD card can be attached to memory card interface 112. Memory card114 is a storage which can be attached to and removed from informationprocessing apparatus 100. Memory card interface 112 reads data from andwrites data into attached memory card 114. Memory card 114 may be usedin parallel to internal storage 106. Memory card 114 may alsohereinafter be referred to as an “external storage” as compared withinternal storage 106.

Data similar to data stored in internal storage 106 may be stored alsoin memory card 114. A content downloaded from server 200 may be storedin memory card 114. At least one of internal storage 106 and theexternal storage (memory card 114) thus corresponds to a storagefunction for storing a plurality of contents.

USB interface 116 transmits and receives data to and from any externaldevice. Yet another storage (for example, a USB memory) may be usedthrough USB interface 116. A format for exchanging data is not limitedto the USB but any parallel communication or serial communication can beemployed.

Display 118 is a display which shows an image generated as a result ofinformation processing performed by processor 102. Display 118 may showa content downloaded from server 200. A plurality of displays 118 may beprovided and one display 118 or a plurality of displays 118 may beshared with another information processing apparatus 100.

Operation unit 120 mainly accepts an operation from a user ofinformation processing apparatus 100. Operation unit 120 is mounted, forexample, as an operation button, a touch panel, a mouse, or a keyboard.

Audio output unit 122 outputs voice and sound generated as a result ofinformation processing performed by processor 102. Voice and soundgenerated from a content downloaded from server 200 may be output toaudio output unit 122. Audio output unit 122 is mounted, for example, asone speaker or a plurality of speakers arranged at any location and anamplifier driving the speaker. Audio output unit 122 may be mounted as aconnector electrically connected to a headphone and an amplifier drivingthe headphone connected via the connector.

Radio communication unit 124 transmits and receives data to and fromanother apparatus through a radio signal. Radio communication unit 124is mounted, for example, by using a wireless local area network (LAN)under IEEE 802.11 standards, near field radio communication underBluetooth™ standards, infrared communication, or mobile communicationunder long term evolution (LTD) standards. Though FIG. 2 collectivelyshows a block of radio communication unit 124, a plurality of types ofradio communication functions may be mounted or a plurality of radiocommunication functions of a single type may be prepared in accordancewith a communication counterpart. Radio communication unit 124 may beintegrated with processor 102.

Acceleration sensor 126 is a device which detects an accelerationgenerated in information processing apparatus 100. Gyro sensor 128 is adevice which detects inclination or the like of information processingapparatus 100.

Information processing apparatus 100 may be mounted as a combination ofa plurality of independent apparatuses. For example, a first apparatusincluding elements corresponding to processor 102, display 118,operation unit 120, and audio output unit 122 and a second apparatusincluding an element corresponding to radio communication unit 124 mayremovably be connected to each other. If the information processingapparatus is divided into such apparatuses, it can arbitrarily bedesigned depending on an application and a purpose.

Alternatively, a part of functions mounted on information processingapparatus 100 may be provided by another apparatus or a plurality ofother apparatuses arranged as being distributed over a network (a widearea network and/or a local network).

(b2: Server 200)

Server 200 can be implemented by a general-purpose server.

One example of a configuration of server 200 according to the presentembodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 3. Server 200includes a processor 202, a main memory 204, a hard disk 206, a display218, an operation unit 220, and a communication unit 224. Thesecomponents are connected to be able to communicate data with one anotherthrough a bus 230.

Processor 202 is a processing entity for performing processing providedby server 200. Processor 202 executes an operating system 208 and adistribution server function program 210 stored in hard disk 206.

Main memory 204 is any storage device which can be accessed by processor202, and mounted, for example, as a volatile storage device such as aDRAM.

Hard disk 206 stores distribution server function program 210 forperforming authentication processing or content distribution processingin addition to OS 208. Hard disk 206 also stores content group 250consisting of a plurality of contents and management information 260. Ingeneral, since content group 250 is large in data size, a plurality ofhard disks 206 can be used in coordination. Instead of or in addition tohard disk 206, a non-volatile storage device such as a solid state drive(SSD) can also be employed.

[C. Function to Support Securing of Free Space]

Information processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodimenthas a function to support securing of a necessary free space when thereis no sufficient free space in storing new data in internal storage 106or memory card 114. Specifically, an automatic selection function forautomatically selecting a content to be erased for securing a necessaryfree space and a manual selection function supporting selection of acontent to be erased for securing a necessary free space are provided.Both of the automatic selection function and the manual selectionfunction do not necessarily have to be mounted, and only any onefunction may be mounted. Furthermore, an automatic erasure function forautomatically erasing a content selected under prescribed rules wheninsufficiency in free space is detected may be mounted.

An overall processing procedure in information processing system 1according to the present embodiment will be described with reference toFIG. 4. Each step shown in FIG. 4 is typically performed as a result ofexecution of system program 108 by processor 102 of informationprocessing apparatus 100.

Referring to FIG. 4, when an event to store data in internal storage 106or memory card 114 occurs (step S100), processor 102 designates anamount of data necessary for storing the data and determines whether ornot a free space equal to or greater than the necessary amount of datais available in internal storage 106 or memory card 114 (step S102).

When a free space equal to or greater than the necessary amount of datais available in internal storage 106 or memory card 114 (YES in stepS102), processor 102 has the data of interest stored in internal storage106 or memory card 114 (step S106). Then, the process ends.

When only a free space smaller than the necessary amount of data isavailable in internal storage 106 or memory card 114 (NO in step S102),processor 102 determines whether or not the automatic erasure functionhas been activated (step S108). When the automatic erasure function hasbeen activated (YES in step S108), processor 102 performs the automaticerasure function and erases one content or a plurality of contentsstored in internal storage 106 or memory card 114 (step S110). Processor102 selects at least one content from among the plurality of contentsbased on the designated amount of data and erases the selected content.The designated amount of data means an amount of data calculated bysubtracting a current free space from a capacity insufficient forstorage of new data, that is, an amount of data necessary for storingthe data (an amount of data of a content to newly be stored).

In succession, processor 102 has the data of interest stored in internalstorage 106 or memory card 114 (step S106). Then, the process ends.

When the automatic erasure function has not been activated (NO in stepS108), processor 102 performs the automatic selection function.Specifically, processor 102 selects a candidate for one content orcandidates for a plurality of contents to be erased for securing anecessary free space from among the contents stored in internal storage106 or memory card 114 and displays the candidate(s) on display 118(step S112). Processor 102 selects at least one content from among theplurality of contents based on the designated amount of data. Processor102 determines whether or not erasure of the candidate for the selectedcontent has been indicated by a user (step S114). The designated amountof data again means an amount of data calculated by subtracting acurrent free space from an amount of data necessary for storing the data(an amount of data of a content to newly be stored) as described above.

When erasure of the candidate for the selected content has beenindicated by the user (YES in step S114), processor 102 erases thecandidate for the selected content from internal storage 106 or memorycard 114 (step S116). Processor 102 erases the selected content frominternal storage 106 or memory card 114 in response to an operation bythe user. In succession, processor 102 has the data of interest storedin internal storage 106 or memory card 114 (step S106). Then, theprocess ends.

When erasure of the candidate for the selected content has not beenindicated by the user (NO in step S114), processor 102 determineswhether or not erasure of the content has been canceled (step S118).When erasure of the content has been canceled (YES in step S118),processor 102 stops the process (step S120).

When erasure of the content has not been canceled (NO in step S118),processor 102 performs the manual selection function. Specifically,processor 102 displays one content or a plurality of contents which maybe erased on display 118 among contents stored in internal storage 106or memory card 114 (step S122). Processor 102 displays a plurality ofpieces of content information representing respective contents as beingaligned in accordance with a priority for each content. A manner ofrepresentation of the content information will be described later.

Then, processor 102 has display 118 show a free space which can besecured in response to selection of a content by the user (step S124).Processor 102 performs calculation about a free space based on thedesignated amount of data and an amount of data of a contentcorresponding to content information selected by the user. Then, theresult of calculation is shown on display 118.

Processor 102 determines whether or not erasure of the selected contenthas been indicated by the user (step S126).

When erasure of the selected content has been indicated by the user (YESin step S126), processor 102 erases the selected content from internalstorage 106 or memory card 114 (step S128), and in succession, it hasthe data of interest stored in internal storage 106 or memory card 114(step S106). Then, the process ends.

When erasure of the selected content has been canceled by the user (NOin step S126), the processing in step S112 or later is performed again.

Information processing apparatus 100 performs processing for supportingsecuring of a free space as above. Though a configuration in which theautomatic selection function is performed first and then the manualselection function is consecutively performed in the processingprocedure shown in FIG. 4 is exemplified, the manual selection functionmay be performed first. Details of the automatic selection function, themanual selection function, and the automatic erasure function shown inFIG. 4 will be described later.

[D. Data Structure of Content]

One example of a data structure of a content stored in the internalstorage or the external storage of information processing apparatus 100will now be described. In information processing apparatus 100, anyapplication program can be downloaded from server 200 and executed.

One example of a data structure stored in the storage of informationprocessing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will bedescribed with reference to FIG. 5. Referring to FIG. 5, the storage ofinformation processing apparatus 100 stores application data 110 foreach application program. Each piece of application data 110 typicallyincludes setting information 1101, icon data 1102, a basic program 1103,an update program 1104, additional data 1105, and save data 1106.

Setting information 1101 includes a setting value necessary forexecuting a corresponding application program. Setting information 1101includes associated information for each downloaded application program.Setting information 1101 may be downloaded from server 200 ordynamically be generated by information processing apparatus 100 inaccordance with an application program downloaded from server 200.

Icon data 1102 includes an icon image for launching a correspondingapplication program. Basically, icon data 1102 comes with an applicationprogram downloaded from server 200. Alternatively, an icon libraryinstalled in advance in information processing apparatus 100 may beused. In this case, only identification information as to which of iconsincluded in the icon library installed in advance in informationprocessing apparatus 100 should be used may be included as icon data1102.

Basic program 1103, update program 1104, and additional data 1105 shownin FIG. 5 correspond to a substance of the application program. Server200 distributes an application program, and it may distribute basicprogram 1103, update program 1104, and additional data 1105 at once asbeing packaged or may distribute only some programs.

Basic program 1103 includes a program which is a core part of theapplication program. Typically, basic program 1103 includes codes of aninitial version of the application program. Update program 1104 is aprogram generally referred to as a patch or a difference, and it fixesbugs or improves processing by being combined with basic program 1103.Additional data 1105 includes, for example, an item or a librarynecessary for execution of the application program. Additional data 1105may be downloaded from server 200 as necessary during execution of theapplication program.

Save data 1106 includes various types of data (user data) generated as aresult of execution of a corresponding application program by the user.Save data 1106 corresponds to application-associated data correspondingto the application program. Save data 1106 is generated as appropriatein response to an operation by the user.

Though FIG. 5 shows a plurality of pieces of application data 110 asbeing integrated for the sake of convenience of description, applicationdata 110 may be arranged as being distributed in different storages. Forexample, save data 1106 may be stored in an external storage (memorycard 114) and other data may be stored in internal storage 106. Bystoring save data 1106 in memory card 114, the same save data 1106 canbe used among a plurality of information processing apparatuses 100 inwhich the same application program has been installed.

Once some application program is installed in information processingapparatus 100, application data 110 as shown in FIG. 5 is stored in thestorage. In order to efficiently use the storage, substantial data(basic program 1103, update program 1104, and additional data 1105) ofan application program low in frequency of use can also be erased. Otherdata of application program 110, however, remains unless informationprocessing apparatus 100 is initialized or the application program isuninstalled. Therefore, the application program can continue to beexecuted from a previous state by downloading again substantial data(basic program 1103, update program 1104, and additional data 1105) fromserver 200 as necessary and storing the data in the storage.

An application program may automatically be erased and re-downloaded.The automatic selection function, the manual selection function, and theautomatic erasure function shown in FIG. 4 are mainly applied to erasureof an application program shown in FIG. 4. Setting information 1101,icon data 1102, and save data 1106 will not be erased even when a freespace is newly required.

FIG. 6 shows one example of a screen image showing a state that anapplication program is installed in information processing apparatus 100according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 6A, for example,an application program has previously been installed and an icon 302 forlaunching the installed application program is shown.

In succession, when another application program is installed, as shownin FIG. 6B, an icon 304 for launching another application program isnewly shown. An icon corresponding to an application program once storedin the storage is thus shown.

In the state shown in FIG. 6B, when each of icon 302 and icon 304 isselected, each corresponding application program is executed. Thus, inresponse to an operation by a user onto the shown icon, a correspondingapplication program is executed.

FIG. 6C shows a state after a substance of the application programcorresponding to icon 304 in FIG. 6B was erased. The substance of theapplication program may be erased after a content (application program)is selected with the automatic selection function or the manualselection function as will be described later. Even when the applicationprogram included in the selected content is thus erased, the iconcorresponding to the erased application program will not be erased.

As shown in FIG. 6C, an icon 306 slightly different in manner ofrepresentation from icon 304 in FIG. 6B may be shown. By thus making themanner of representation different, a user can know that thecorresponding application program has been erased. Even though theapplication program has been erased, representation of the icon the sameas icon 304 in FIG. 6B may be maintained.

When the user selects icon 306 shown in FIG. 6C, the substance of thecorresponding application program is downloaded from server 200 and thenthe application program is executed. If the corresponding applicationprogram has been erased at the time when the user performs an operationon any icon, the application program is obtained again and thenexecuted. Re-downloading of a content (application program) from server200 is assumed as such obtainment again.

Thus, only data necessary for execution of an application program isdynamically stored in accordance with a size of a free space in thestorage of information processing apparatus 100 while a state ofinstallation of an application program is maintained. By providing sucha user interface, the user can install and enjoy more applicationprograms without concern about a capacity of the storage in informationprocessing apparatus 100.

On the other hand, data is added to and erased from the storage ininformation processing apparatus 100 relatively frequently. Examples ofnecessity for writing new data in the storage are assumed as follows:

(1) Downloading and installation of a new application program;

(2) Obtainment again of a substantial program for executing anapplication program;

(3) Creation or update of save data during execution of some applicationprogram;

(4) Downloading of an additional content (information on a new item, anew character, and a new stage) during execution of some applicationprogram (see additional data 1105 in FIG. 5); and

(5) Downloading and installation of an update program.

The examples described above fall under occurrence of an event ofstorage of data shown in step S100 in FIG. 4. In such a case, if thereis no free space for storing data of interest in the storage ofinformation processing apparatus 100, some data should inevitably beerased to secure a free space. Therefore, information processingapparatus 100 supports an operation for securing a free space by a userby providing the automatic selection function, the manual selectionfunction, and the automatic erasure function to the user.

For example, when a new content is downloaded from server 200 connectedto information processing apparatus 100 and stored in the storage, anamount of data of the content to be stored is designated as a necessaryamount of data (free space). Thus, processor 102 designates an amount ofdata to newly be secured by erasing some data which has previously beenstored, based on an amount of data of a newly stored content and acurrent free space in internal storage 106 or memory card 114.

[E. Automatic Selection Function]

The automatic selection function provided by information processingapparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will now be described.With the automatic selection function, a candidate to be erased amongcontents stored in the storage is automatically selected based onrelation between data to be stored in the storage and a free space.

FIG. 7 shows one example of a screen image shown in step S112 in FIG. 4.Referring to FIG. 7, a list of selected contents to be erased is shown402 on a screen image 400 together with a message 404 “There is nosufficient free space. Do you free up space by cleaning up followingapplication?” In the example shown in FIG. 7, three application programshave been selected as candidates to be erased.

Thus, the automatic selection function of information processingapparatus 100 selects at least one content (application program in theexample shown in FIG. 7) based on the designated necessary amount ofdata and an amount of data of each content. The automatic selectionfunction successively selects contents from among the plurality ofcontents until a total amount of data of selected contents reaches thedesignated necessary amount of data. Thus, the automatic selectionfunction selects one or more contents based on an amount of data of acontent to newly be stored, a current free space in internal storage 106or memory card 114, and an amount of data of each previously storedcontent.

The automatic selection function of information processing apparatus 100may automatically select an application program to be a candidate to beerased under prescribed rules. Details of the rules for selection of acandidate to be erased will be described later.

When a user selects an execution button 410 labeled as “clean up” whilescreen image 400 is shown, the selected content is erased from internalstorage 106 or memory card 114 (see step S116 in FIG. 4).

An application program corresponding to the selected content (basicprogram 1103, update program 1104, and additional data 1105 shown inFIG. 5) is erased. On the other hand, other data (setting information1101, icon data 1102, and save data 1106 shown in FIG. 5) will not beerased.

When a cancel button 414 is selected while screen image 400 is shown,processing for erasing a content for securing a free space is canceled(see step S118 in FIG. 4). When a switch button 412 labeled as “selectapplication” is selected, the manual selection function which will bedescribed later is performed (see step S122 in FIG. 4).

In selecting a content to be a candidate to be erased, various methodscan be adopted. Management information 111 may be used for selectingsuch a candidate to be erased. Management information 111 may typicallybe stored in a system area or the like of internal storage 106.

FIG. 8 shows one example of a data structure of management information111 used in information processing apparatus 100 according to thepresent embodiment. The data structure shown in FIG. 8 is by way ofexample and any data structure and any information to be stored may beselected.

Referring to FIG. 8, management information 111 includes a name 1111, acapacity 1112 occupied in the storage, the number of times of launch1113 since installation, time and date of last launch 1114, a total timeperiod of execution 1115 since installation, and exclusion information1116 for each installed application program. A method of setting andusing exclusion information 1116 will be described later.

Management information 111 may include information indicating at whichposition in the storage icon data 1102, basic program 1103, updateprogram 1104, additional data 1105, and save data 1106 are stored.Details of capacity 1112 (that is, an amount of data of each of basicprogram 1103, update program 1104, and additional data 1105) may bemanaged. Management information 111 is generated at the time when acorresponding application program is downloaded and installed, and it isupdated as appropriate. Basically, management information 111 will notbe erased regardless of erasure of an application program.

Capacity 1112 is preferably managed for each storage which can be usedby information processing apparatus 100. In the example shown in FIG. 8,a capacity is managed for each of internal storage 106 and memory card114 (external storage).

One content or a plurality of contents to be candidate(s) to be erasedis (are) selected based on an amount of data designated in accordancewith an event of storage of data by using management information 111. Apriority of a plurality of contents is set and at least one content isselected in accordance with the set priority. One example of a method ofsetting a priority for selecting a content to be a candidate to beerased is shown below.

(1) Method of preferentially selecting a content longer in elapsed timesince last launch

By way of example, a priority may be set based on a state of use of eachcontent. Specifically, with reference to time and date of last launch1114 included in management information 111 shown in FIG. 8, contentsmay be selected in the descending order of a length of elapsed timesince last launch until a free space to be secured is reached. As acorresponding content (application program) is earlier in last launch, ahigher priority may be set therefor. Though FIG. 8 shows an example inwhich time and date of last launch 1114 is used, a date of last launchmay be used without using time.

Thus, by preferentially selecting a content longer in elapsed time sincelast launch, a content lower in possibility of use is selected as acandidate to be erased, and therefore a frequency of re-downloadingwhich will occur in the future can be reduced.

(2) Method of preferentially selecting a content smaller in number oftimes of launch

By way of example, a priority may be set based on another state of useof each content. Specifically, with reference to the number of times oflaunch 1113 included in management information 111 shown in FIG. 8, acontent may be selected in the ascending order of the number of times oflaunch until a free space to be secured is reached. As a correspondingcontent (application program) is smaller in number of times of launch, ahigher priority may be set therefor.

By thus preferentially selecting a content smaller in number of times oflaunch, a frequency of re-downloading which will occur in the future canbe reduced.

(3) Method of preferentially selecting a content large in data capacity

With reference to capacity 1112 included in management information 111shown in FIG. 8, a content may be selected in the descending order of anoccupied capacity until a free space to be secured is reached. Acorresponding content (application program) greater in amount of datamay be higher in priority.

By thus preferentially selecting a content greater in capacity, thenumber of contents to be erased can be reduced and a frequency ofre-downloading which will occur in the future can be reduced.

(4) Method of preferentially selecting a content shorter in total timeperiod of execution

With reference to total time period of execution 1115 included inmanagement information 111 shown in FIG. 8, a content may be selected inthe ascending order of the total time period of execution sinceinstallation until a free space to be secured is reached. Acorresponding content (application program) shorter in total time periodof use by the user may be higher in priority.

By thus preferentially selecting a content shorter in total time periodof execution, the number of contents to be erased can be reduced and afrequency of re-downloading which will occur in the future can bereduced.

(5) Method of selecting a content by using a comprehensive indicator

Since management information 111 shown in FIG. 8 includes a plurality ofpieces of information indicating a state of use for each content,determination may be made comprehensively taking into account suchinformation. For example, determination may be made by combining asappropriate some or all of (1) to (3) described above. Alternatively,for example, an indicator indicating a priority may be set by using afunction including a weight coefficient as shown below so that a contentgreater in value for the set indicator is sequentially selected.(Indicator indicating priority)=α1×(capacity)−α2×(the number of times oflaunch)+α3×(elapsed time since last launch) (weight coefficients α1, α2,and α3>0)

The selection methods described above are by way of example and anyselection method can be adopted depending on a purpose or a state. Whena capacity is managed for each storage, the same criteria may be appliedto each storage and criteria different for each storage may be applied.

By adopting the automatic selection function according to the presentembodiment, data to be erased for securing a free space can easily beselected when some contents should be stored in the storage ofinformation processing apparatus 100. With such a function beingprovided, in using a variety of contents provided by server 200, anoperation for successive changeover of necessary data can readily beperformed without concern about a capacity of the storage of informationprocessing apparatus 100.

[F. Manual Selection Function]

The manual selection function provided by information processingapparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will now be described.The manual selection function allows representation of erasable contentsin a list and allows a user to arbitrarily select a content to beerased. With selection of a content by the user, the user is alsonotified of how much free space can be secured. The user sequentiallyselects contents in order to secure a necessary free space while theuser refers to such a notification.

FIGS. 9 and 10 show examples of screen images shown in steps S122 andS124 in FIG. 4. The screen images shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 are typicallyused for showing already stored content information when there is nosufficient free space for storing a content in the storage indownloading of the content from server 200.

Referring to FIG. 9, a screen image 420 shows a content list 422 showinga list of erasable contents and shows a check mark 424 representing animage indicating a content selected from among the contents included incontent list 422 as being superimposed on the content. Content list 422includes a plurality of pieces of content information and each piece ofcontent information represents information on a correspondingapplication program.

Content list 422 shown in FIG. 9 can show only five pieces of contentinformation at once, and when there are more erasable contents, a slider423 is shown. Details of contents shown in content list 422 are updatedin response to an operation onto slider 423.

Content list 422 shows an amount of data of a corresponding applicationprogram and a state of use of the corresponding application program inaddition to a name of the application program corresponding to eachcontent. It is not necessary to show every such information, and atleast one type of information may be shown. Alternatively, a type ofinformation to be shown may be changed over time. An amount of datastored in internal storage 106 and an amount of data stored in theexternal storage are shown for each content as an amount of data of thecorresponding application program.

Screen image 420 shows a state representation image 426 showing a freespace in internal storage 106 and a state representation image 430showing a free space in the external storage (memory card 114).Representation contents of state representation image 426 and staterepresentation image 430 are varied depending on a content selected forerasure. In the example shown in FIG. 9, how much space is short withrespect to a necessary free space is shown together. The user selects acontent as appropriate in order to secure a necessary free space byreferring to state representation image 426 and state representationimage 430.

When a USB memory can be used through USB interface 116 (FIG. 2) inaddition to internal storage 106 and memory card 114, a staterepresentation image corresponding to the USB memory may further beprovided.

Specifically, state representation image 426 includes a barrepresentation 428 indicating a necessary free space and a barrepresentation 429 indicating a free space currently secured in internalstorage 106. Bar representation 429 is shown as being superimposed onbar representation 428. A numeric representation 427 shows a numericvalue as to how much a currently secured free space is short withrespect to a necessary free space. The numeric value shown in numericrepresentation 427 corresponds to a difference between a necessary freespace and a currently secured free space.

Similarly, state representation image 430 includes a bar representation432 indicating a necessary free space and a bar representation 433indicating a currently secured free space in the external storage. Barrepresentation 433 is shown as being superimposed on bar representation432. A numeric representation 431 shows a numeric value as to how much acurrently secured free space is short with respect to a necessary freespace. The numeric value shown in numeric representation 431 correspondsto a difference between a necessary free space and a currently securedfree space.

Thus, in showing screen image 420, information processing apparatus 100performs calculation (typically calculation of a difference) based on adesignated necessary amount of data and an amount of data of a contentcorresponding to selected content information. A result of calculationis shown on display 118 as numeric representation 427 or numericrepresentation 431.

In calculation of a difference, an amount of data of a selected contentcan be obtained by accessing an application program stored in thestorage, however, processing can be accelerated by obtaining an amountof data by referring to management information 111 (FIG. 8).

When an application program is newly downloaded, bar representation 428and bar representation 432 indicating a necessary free space show anamount of data of the downloaded application program.

The currently secured free space means a total of a free space which hasalready been available in each storage before a content to be erased isselected and a free space (an expected capacity) which will be securedby erasing a selected content.

FIG. 10 shows a state that two contents have been selected for erasure.A first content with check mark 424 and a third content with a checkmark 425 have been selected. With selection of two such contents, anecessary free space has been secured in internal storage 106. In staterepresentation image 426 as well, an amount of data to further be erasedis shown as “0”.

When a cursor is pointed to any content in content list 422, a freespace which may increase at the time when the content is selected forerasure may additionally be shown in a manner different from barrepresentation 429 and bar representation 433 (for example, in adifferent color).

When a content sufficient for securing a necessary free space in any ofinternal storage 106 and the external storage (memory card 114) isselected, an enter button 436 for indicating start of erasure of theselected content is activated. Enter button 436 can be selected in thestate as shown in FIG. 10. When the user selects enter button 436,erasure of that content is started.

When a free space corresponding to a designated necessary amount of datacan be secured by erasing a content corresponding to content informationselected in content list 422 from any of internal storage 106 and theexternal storage (memory card 114), an operation to erase the content bythe user is activated. Then, in response to an operation by the user(that is, selection of enter button 436), information processingapparatus 100 erases the content corresponding to the selected contentinformation from the storage.

Screen image 420 shows a button 438 for canceling erasure of a contentwith the manual selection function, and the manual selection function iscanceled based on selection of button 438 by the user.

The order of alignment of contents included in content list 422 shown inFIGS. 9 and 10 can arbitrarily be designed. Typically, contents may beshown as being aligned under the criteria as described in the automaticselection function above. Namely, (1) the method of preferentiallyselecting a content longer in elapsed time since last launch, (2) themethod of preferentially selecting a content smaller in number of timesof launch, (3) the method of preferentially selecting a content greaterin data capacity, (4) the method of preferentially selecting a contentshorter in total time period of execution, and (5) the selection methodby using a comprehensive indicator are available.

Furthermore, the chronological order of installation or the reversechronological order of installation may be adopted. The criteria in theautomatic selection function described above do not have to be the sameas the criteria in the manual selection function, and the criteria maybe set for each function.

By adopting the manual selection function according to the presentembodiment, the user can readily clean up contents in order to obtain anecessary free space when some contents should be stored in the storageof information processing apparatus 100. With such a function beingprovided, in using a variety of contents provided by server 200, anoperation for successive changeover of necessary data can readily beperformed without concern about a capacity of the storage of informationprocessing apparatus 100.

[G. Automatic Erasure Function]

The automatic erasure function provided by information processingapparatus 100 according to the present embodiment will now be described.The automatic erasure function automatically performs processing forerasing a content selected by the automatic selection function describedabove. When some free space should be secured in the storage ofinformation processing apparatus 100 while the automatic erasurefunction is active, a content is selected in accordance with a necessaryfree space so that the selected content is erased. The automatic erasurefunction may be performed as a background process or a foregroundprocess. By adopting such a method, a necessary free space can besecured at necessary timing without bothering a user.

FIG. 11 shows one example of a screen image for activating the automaticerasure function provided in information processing apparatus 100according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 11, a screenimage 440 includes an activation button 444 for activating the automaticerasure function and a cancel button 446 for refraining from activatingthe automatic erasure function, together with a message asking whetheror not to activate the automatic erasure function.

When activation button 444 is selected, the automatic erasure functionis activated. When a free space should be secured, a content isautomatically selected and erased. After this setting is made,basically, an interactive screen image as shown in FIGS. 7 to 10 is notshown. Setting of automatic erasure of a content is thus accepted inresponse to an operation by a user.

When cancel button 446 is selected, the automatic erasure function isnot activated. When a free space should be secured, an interactivescreen image as shown in FIGS. 7 to 10 is shown to the user.

When setting of automatic erasure of a content is thus activated inresponse to an operation by the user, the content is erased regardlessof an operation by the user. Setting to activate the automatic erasurefunction may be made after the content is erased. For example, screenimage 440 as shown in FIG. 11 may be shown after step S116 in FIG. 4 isperformed (after a manual erasure function is performed). Alternatively,screen image 440 as shown in FIG. 11 may be shown after step S128 inFIG. 4 is performed (after the manual erasure function is performed).

Similarly to the automatic selection function described above, apriority of a plurality of contents may be set also in the automaticerasure function, and at least one content is selected in accordancewith the set priority. Then, the selected at least one content isautomatically erased.

The automatic erasure function according to the present embodiment maybe invoked during execution of an application program. For example, theautomatic erasure function is invoked when such an event as purchase ofa downloaded content or saving of save data occurs during execution ofan application program.

By adopting the automatic erasure function according to the presentembodiment, a content is automatically selected and erased at the timingwhen a free space should be secured. Therefore, the user can downloadand enjoy any content without concern about a free space in the storageof information processing apparatus 100.

[H. Exclusion Setting Function]

There is also a content which a user does not want to be selected as acandidate for a content to be erased with the automatic selectionfunction as described above. In such a case, a function allowing a userhimself/herself to set a content which should not be erased (hereinafteralso referred to as an “exclusion setting function”) may be provided inadvance. The exclusion setting function with which a content to beerased is set in advance will be described below.

FIG. 12 shows one example of a screen image providing the exclusionsetting function of information processing apparatus 100 according tothe present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 12, a screen image 460 shows acontent list 462 showing a list of contents stored in the storage. Ifcontents more than contents which can be shown in content list 462 arestored in the storage, a slider 466 is shown so that details of contentsshown in content list 462 are updated in response to an operation ontoslider 466.

The user checks a content of which erasure is not desired among contentsshown in content list 462. For example, when the user selects a portionindicating a content of interest, a check mark 464 is shown as beingsuperimposed on the selected portion. The content with check mark 464 isnot selected as a content to be erased in the automatic selectionfunction and the automatic erasure function described above.Furthermore, such a content may be excluded from a candidate to beerased also in the manual selection function.

The automatic selection function of information processing apparatus 100allows setting of an exclusion content to be excluded from erasuretargets in advance among a plurality of contents, in response to anoperation by the user. The automatic selection function of informationprocessing apparatus 100 allows selection of a content to be erased fromamong contents other than the exclusion content among the plurality ofcontents.

By using such an exclusion setting function, even though the automaticerasure function as described above is activated, such a situation thata content which the user does not desire to be erased is automaticallyerased can be avoided.

[I. Software Structure]

A software structure implemented in information processing apparatus 100according to the present embodiment will now be described with referenceto FIG. 13.

The software structure of information processing apparatus 100 includesa software module group 150. Software module group 150 is implemented byexecution of system program 108 (FIG. 2) by processor 102 of informationprocessing apparatus 100. More specifically, software module group 150includes a representation control module 152, a designation module 154,a calculation module 156, a selection module 158, and an erasure module160.

Representation control module 152 generates a screen image to be shownon display 118 and performs necessary processing upon receiving anoperation by a user through operation unit 120. Representation controlmodule 152 has display 118 show a plurality of pieces of contentinformation representing contents as being aligned in accordance with apriority for each content.

Designation module 154 designates a free space necessary for storingdata when some event to store data in the storage occurs. The designatednecessary free space is given to representation control module 152,calculation module 156, and selection module 158.

Selection module 158 selects one or more contents from among a pluralityof contents stored in the storage based on a necessary free space (anamount of data) designated by designation module 154 when the automaticselection function or the automatic erasure function is performed.Selection module 158 selects at least one of the plurality of pieces ofcontent information in response to an operation by the user throughrepresentation control module 152 when the manual selection function isperformed.

Calculation module 156 performs calculation based on a necessary freespace (an amount of data) designated by designation module 154 and anamount of data of a content corresponding to content informationselected by selection module 158 when the manual selection function isperformed. A result of calculation is output to representation controlmodule 152 and representation control module 152 has display 118 showthe result.

Erasure module 160 erases the content selected by selection module 158from the storage in response to an operation by the user throughrepresentation control module 152.

[J. Additional Aspects]

The present embodiment includes an information processing apparatus asbelow. The information processing apparatus includes a storage thatstores a plurality of application programs, an erasure module whicherases an application program stored in the storage, a representationcontrol module which has a display show an icon corresponding to theapplication program, and an execution module which executes, when a userselects the icon and an application program corresponding to theselected icon is stored in the storage, the application program, andobtains again, when an application program corresponding to the selectedicon is not stored in the storage, the application program and executesthe application program. Even after the application program is erased,the icon itself is maintained, and when that icon is selected, theerased application program is obtained again.

The present embodiment includes an information processing apparatus asbelow. The information processing apparatus includes a storage thatstores a plurality of application programs and application-associateddata (save data in the example described above) corresponding to eachapplication program. Even when an application program is erased, thecorresponding application-associated data is maintained as being stored.The information processing apparatus uses the previously storedapplication-associated data in execution of the application program whenthe application program is obtained again. Specifically, theapplication-associated data is read in execution of the applicationprogram.

[K. Advantages]

The information processing apparatus according to the present embodimentstores a plurality of application programs. When a new applicationprogram is downloaded, an amount of data of the application program iscompared with a free space in the storage and a free space to be securedin a storage to additionally be secured is calculated. At least oneapplication program to be erased is selected until the calculated amountof data is reached. The selected at least one application program ispresented to a user. The user indicates erasure of the presented atleast one application program so that a free space for storing a newlydownloaded application program can be secured in the storage.

By adopting such a configuration, an operation for securing a necessaryfree space in newly storing any content in the storage can befacilitated.

The information processing apparatus according to the present embodimentstores a plurality of application programs. When a new applicationprogram is downloaded, an amount of data of the application program iscompared with a free space in the storage and a free space to be securedin a storage to additionally be secured is calculated and shown. Inaddition, information representing application programs in an order inaccordance with a priority is shown as being aligned. In response to aselection operation by a user, an amount of data of the selectedapplication program is subtracted from a free space to be secured andsuccessively shown. When the difference attains to zero, an operationfor erasing the application program is permitted. Then, in response toan operation by the user, the selected application program is erased.

The storage includes an internal storage contained in the informationprocessing apparatus and an external storage such as a memory card, anda free space to be secured is shown for each storage. By referring tosuch representation, a user can appropriately and readily select whichapplication program is to be erased in order to secure a necessary freespace.

By adopting such a configuration, an amount of data of an already storedcontent can be recognized and a content to be erased for securing anamount of data can readily be determined.

While certain example systems, methods, devices, and apparatuses havebeen described herein, it is to be understood that the appended claimsare not to be limited to the systems, methods, devices, and apparatusesdisclosed, but on the contrary, are intended to cover variousmodifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit andscope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A non-transitory computer-readable storage mediumwith an executable information processing program stored thereon, theexecutable information processing program, when executed by circuitry ofan information processing apparatus having a first storage and a secondstorage that together store a plurality of application programs, causesthe circuitry to: identify that a request has been received to store anew application program at the information processing apparatus;designate an amount of space required to store the new applicationprogram; control a display to display the plurality of applicationprograms aligned in accordance with a priority for selecting to eraseeach respective application program hi a case that there is insufficientstorage space available in at least one of the first storage and thesecond storage to store the new application program; receive an inputselecting an application program of the plurality of applicationprograms; calculate a first amount of storage space available in thefirst storage and a second amount of storage space available in thesecond storage based on the designated amount of space required to storethe new application program and an amount of data corresponding to theselected application program stored in at least one of the first storageand the second storage in a case that the data corresponding to theselected application program is erased; and control the display todisplay the first amount of storage space available in the first storageand the second amount of storage space available in the second storageas a result of the calculation.
 2. The non-transitory computer-readablestorage medium according to claim 1, wherein the application program isan electronic game and includes a basic program, an update program, andadditional data.
 3. The non-transitory computer-readable storage mediumaccording to claim 1, wherein in a case that a first application programis launched more recently than a second application program, the secondapplication program has a higher priority than the first applicationprogram.
 4. The non-transitory computer-readable storage mediumaccording to claim 1, wherein in a case that a number of times a firstapplication program is launched is greater than a number of times that asecond application program is launched, the second application programhas a higher priority than the first application program.
 5. Thenon-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 1,wherein the first storage is a storage contained in the informationprocessing apparatus.
 6. The non-transitory computer-readable storagemedium according to claim 1, wherein the second storage is a storageattachable to and removable from the information processing apparatus.7. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium according toclaim 1, wherein controlling the display to display the plurality ofapplication programs and the result of the calculation includesactivating an operation to erase the selected application program whenthe designated amount of space can be secured by erasing the selectedapplication from the one storage.
 8. The non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium according to claim 1, whereincontrolling the display to display the plurality of application programsincludes controlling the display to display, for each applicationprogram, at least one of a name of the corresponding applicationprogram, an amount of data of the corresponding application program, anda state of use of the corresponding application program.
 9. Thenon-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 1,wherein the executable information processing program causes thecircuitry to control the display to display the plurality of applicationprograms when a free space in the first storage and the second storageis insufficient for storing the new application program.
 10. Thenon-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 1,wherein the executable information processing program causes thecircuitry to erase the selected application program from the at leastone of the first storage and the second storage.
 11. The non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium according to claim 10, wherein theexecutable information processing program causes the circuitry tocontrol the display to display a setting of automatic erasure ofapplication programs after the selected application program is erased.12. An information processing apparatus comprising: a first storage anda second storage that together store a plurality of applicationprograms; an identification circuit that identifies that a request hasbeen received to store a new application program; a designation circuitthat designates an amount of space required to store the new applicationprogram; a control circuit that controls a display to display theplurality of application programs aligned in accordance with a priorityfor selecting to erase each respective application program in a casethat there is insufficient storage space available in at least one ofthe first storage and the second storage to store the new applicationprogram; a circuit that selects, according to an input, an applicationprogram of the plurality of application programs; and a calculationcircuit that calculates a first amount of storage space available in thefirst storage and a second amount of storage space available in thesecond storage based on the designated amount of space required to storethe new application program and an amount of data corresponding to theselected application program stored in at least one storage of the firststorage and the second storage in a case that the data corresponding tothe selected application program is erased, wherein the control circuitcontrols the display to display the first amount of storage spaceavailable in the first storage and the second amount of storage spaceavailable in the second storage as a result of the calculation.
 13. Aninformation processing system comprising: a first storage and a secondstorage configured to store a plurality of application programs; andprocessing circuitry configured to identify that a request has beenreceived to store a new application program at the informationprocessing system; designate an amount of space required to store thenew application program; control a display to display the plurality ofapplication programs aligned in accordance with a priority for selectingto erase each respective application program hi a case that there isinsufficient storage space available in at least one of the firststorage and the second storage to store the new application program;receive an input selecting an application program of the plurality ofapplication programs; calculate a first amount of storage spaceavailable in the first storage and a second amount of storage spaceavailable in the second storage based on the designated amount of spacerequired to store the new application program and an amount of datacorresponding to the selected application program stored in at least onestorage of the first storage and the second storage in a case that thedata corresponding to the selected application program is erased; andcontrol the display to display the first amount of storage spaceavailable in the first storage and the second amount of storage spaceavailable in the second storage as a result of the calculation.
 14. Aninformation processing method performed in an information processingapparatus having a first storage and a second storage that togetherstore a plurality of application programs, the information processingmethod comprising: identifying that a request has been received to storea new application program at the information processing apparatus;designating an amount of space required to store the new applicationprogram; controlling a display to display the plurality of applicationprograms aligned in accordance with a priority for selecting to eraseeach respective application program hi a case that there is insufficientstorage space available in at least one of the first storage and thesecond storage to store the new application program; receiving an inputselecting an application program of the plurality of applicationprograms; calculating a first amount of storage space available in thefirst storage and a second amount of storage space available in thesecond storage based on the designated amount of space required to storethe new application program and an amount of data corresponding to theselected application program stored in at least one storage of the firststorage and the second storage in a case that the data corresponding tothe selected application program is erased; and controlling the displayto display the first amount of storage space available in the firststorage and the second amount of storage space available in the secondstorage a result of the calculation.
 15. The non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium according to claim 1, wherein thepriority for selecting to erase each respective application aligns theplurality of application programs in order of program size.
 16. Thenon-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 1,wherein in a case that a total time period of execution of a firstapplication program is less than a total time period of execution of asecond application program, the first application program has a higherpriority than the second application program.
 17. The non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium according to claim 1, wherein theexecutable information processing program causes the circuitry tocontrol the display to simultaneously display the plurality ofapplication programs and the first amount of storage space available inthe first storage and the second amount of storage space available inthe second storage resulting from the calculation.
 18. The informationprocessing system according to claim 13, wherein the priority forselecting to erase each respective application aligns the plurality ofapplication programs in order of program size.
 19. The informationprocessing system according to claim 13, wherein the processingcircuitry is configured to control the display to simultaneously displaythe plurality of application programs and the first amount of storagespace available in the first storage and the second amount of storagespace available in the second storage resulting from the calculation.